Of those 18, Ruutu leads the way with $60 in donations, followed closely behind by Nic Wallin’s 50 bucks. A distant third is Tim Gleason with $10 and tied for fourth are Matt Cullen and Scott Walker with $3.50 (.50 per day).

The other 13 players have yet to receive any pledges. Remember folks, the pledges do not go to the players, the money goes to the Kids ‘N Community Foundation.

Chad LaRose wants your energy to drive you to donate, Cam Ward needs your backing, Eric Staal could use an assist from you and Erik Cole needs your speed on the keyboards. Tim Conboy would love to be knocked down by a donation…ok, I will stop with these…as long as you go on and donate.

If you need inspiration, think back to Cole’s grizzly game 7 beard or Cullen’s post-Cup ‘stache.

And yes, I practice what I preach. I recently went on to pledge Scott Walker 50 cents per day. Hopefully this June I am making a $30 donation to the Kids ‘N Community Foundation in Scott’s honor.

Joking aside, the Beard-a-thon has been going very well. I really enjoy watching the match-up of Paul Strand vs. Jesse Riggleman. These two have done an amazing job as they represent nearly 20% of the total amount that has been raised (currently over $15,500). Thanks again to everyone who is participating.

Where’s Your Beard?
I do have to admit that it was pretty cool to walk around the concourse and see so many beards on faces that I typically see cleanly shaven. I do not know everyone’s name, but I do see a lot of faces each night. To all those faces that are becoming a little harder to see…you are looking great. I am somewhat past the “itchy” stage…what about you?

Brind’Amour Jersey in Auction
Tonight, the feature auction item at our silent auction will be Rod Brind’Amour’s game worn jersey from Glen Wesley’s retirement night. This is a really cool jersey that features the autographs and numbers of two of the integral leaders of the 2006 Stanley Cup Championship team.

Task Force Hurricanes
For Sunday night’s game we were able to provide a few tickets per a donation to the families and a few soldiers from Task Force Hurricanes, a local National Guard post. Most of the members of Task Force Hurricanes are currently stationed in various parts of Iraq, but we were able to host their families.

One very cool thing was that one troop member who was able to attend had just arrived back in the US Saturday night. He was able to attend the game with his family. Thanks to those in service who allow us to play this game.